Teenager Charged with Murder Following Tragic Bedroom Stabbing
A community in South Wales is reeling after a 17-year-old schoolgirl, Lainie Williams, was stabbed to death in her own bedroom yesterday morning. An 18-year-old male, identified as Cameron Cheng, has now been charged with her murder and the attempted murder of her 38-year-old mother.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The incident occurred at the family home on Wheatley Place in Cefn Fforest, near Blackwood, shortly after 7am on Thursday. Armed police and paramedics, including an air ambulance, were dispatched to the scene. Tragically, despite their efforts, Lainie was pronounced dead at the scene after reportedly trying to fight off her attacker.
Relatives have described how the assailant first attacked Lainie's mother, Rhian Stephens, 38, leaving her with serious injuries. Ms Stephens was rushed to hospital for treatment. The attacker then ran into Lainie's bedroom, where the teenager was sleeping.
Cheng, who was previously in a relationship with Lainie, has been additionally charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before Newport Magistrates' Court on Monday, November 17.
A Community in Mourning and Heartfelt Tributes
The devastating loss has prompted an outpouring of grief from Lainie's family and friends. The college student, who was looking forward to her forthcoming 18th birthday, has been described as 'so loved'.
Her cousin Megan wrote on social media: 'There's not enough words, rest peacefully our brave and beautiful cousin Lainie. Very fond childhood memories I'll cherish forever. You were and still are so loved.'
Friends also shared their devastation, with one writing: 'No words. Rest in peace beautiful girl, I will cherish our memories as kids forever.' Another added, 'It was a pleasure to know you beautiful. Rest in Paradise.'
Lainie's great-grandmother, Florence Jones, 78, paid tribute, describing the schoolgirl as a 'lovely bubbly girl'. The family has set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs.
Local councillors expressed their shock. Cefn Fforest Councillor Shane Williams said, 'We are all deeply shocked and saddened by the events that have unfolded... When a young girl loses her life like that, it's quite horrendous.' Independent Councillor Kevin Ethridge offered his condolences to the bereaved family.
